Domino: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Mike Story's arrangement captures the essence of "Domino" while respecting the realities of young ensemble reading. The written-out solos remove the improvisation barrier that can stall rehearsals, letting students focus on ensemble blend and rhythm section cohesion. A rock groove that locks in quickly means your ensemble sounds competent by the second or third run-through.

Buoyant and groovy, like a song that gets stuck in your head the moment you hear it. The rock pulse underneath gives the piece momentum and forward motion, while the melody sits comfortably enough that students hear themselves making music, not struggling through notation.

Conductors programming their first or second year jazz ensemble who want a tune that builds confidence without oversimplifying the arranging. Players benefit from written solos that scaffold toward improvisation without demanding it immediately, and the modest trumpet range keeps higher players from showing off while lower voices stay engaged.

• Balance the written-out solos so they sit comfortably in the ensemble texture rather than pushing hard for projection; the chart works because everything moves together.
• Let the rhythm section establish the groove first, then layer the horns in gradually during sectional rehearsals so the rock pocket feels inevitable rather than imposed.
• Keep the tempo steady and conversational; this tune benefits from a relaxed feel rather than pushing the tempo, which will let the catchy melody shine through.
• Mark cut-offs clearly for the ensemble figures so the solos have clean space; young players need visual clarity around where their parts end and solos begin.

Pair this with one ballad and one up-tempo swinger to create a balanced first jazz concert set. The three-minute runtime fits neatly into most concert formats, and the upbeat character makes an ideal opener that engages the audience immediately.

• Reading and executing rock rhythms in jazz context
• Ensemble balance across brass and rhythm sections
• Interpreting written solo passages with stylistic articulation
• Listening for and locking into a consistent groove